Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta: A Low-Carb, Flavor-Packed Delight

If you’re a fan of bold, creamy flavors but are following a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is here to satisfy your cravings without derailing your diet. This indulgent dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich and spicy “bang bang” sauce, all tossed with keto-friendly noodles like zucchini spirals (zoodles) or shirataki noodles. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe delivers all the flavor of traditional pasta dishes while keeping carbs in check. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this crowd-pleasing dish, from its nutritional benefits to step-by-step instructions and creative variations.

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What Is Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a low-carb twist on the classic Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer, reimagined as a hearty main course. The star of the dish is tender, juicy shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce made with mayonnaise, sriracha, and a touch of sweetener. Instead of traditional pasta, this version uses keto-friendly alternatives like zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or shirataki noodles to keep the carb count low. Topped with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for added crunch, this dish is as satisfying as it is delicious.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can enjoy it as-is, garnish it with fresh herbs, or even pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Whether you’re craving something creamy, spicy, or indulgent, this pasta delivers all the satisfaction of traditional recipes without the carb-heavy drawbacks.

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Why Choose Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

1. Perfect for the Keto Diet

• With only a few grams of net carbs per serving, this dish aligns perfectly with the principles of the ketogenic diet. It uses keto-friendly noodles and sugar substitutes to keep your carb count low while delivering rich flavors and textures.

2. Packed with Protein and Healthy Fats

• Shrimp provides a generous dose of lean protein, while the creamy sauce incorporates healthy fats from ingredients like mayonnaise and avocado oil. This makes the dish not only delicious but also satisfying and filling.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

• Unlike some elaborate pasta dishes that require multiple steps and pans, this version is simple to prepare. From cooking the shrimp to tossing everything together, the entire process takes less than 30 minutes.

4. Customizable

• Whether you prefer extra spice, added veggies, or a hint of citrus, this recipe can be tailored to suit your taste buds. It’s also easy to adjust the portion size to fit your dietary needs.

5. Great for Meal Prep

• This dish can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for busy weeks when you don’t have time to cook.

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How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to whip up this delicious dish? Follow these easy steps to create a batch of creamy, spicy goodness that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (preferably avocado oil-based)
• 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon sugar-free sweetener (e.g., erythritol or monk fruit)
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce or coconut aminos
• 1 clove garlic, minced

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces zucchini noodles (zoodles), shirataki noodles, or spaghetti squash
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• 2 tablespoons crushed peanuts or sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, sugar-free sweetener, rice vinegar, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), and minced garlic until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spiciness to suit your preferences.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

1. If using zucchini noodles, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the zoodles and sauté for 2–3 minutes, just until they soften slightly. Avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
3. Remove the noodles from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil or butter if needed.
2. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet.
3. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Reduce the heat to low and pour the bang bang sauce over the cooked shrimp. Stir gently to coat the shrimp evenly.
2. Add the cooked noodles back into the skillet and toss everything together until heated through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the pasta to serving plates or bowls.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions and crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
3. Serve warm and enjoy as a standalone dish or pair with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad.

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Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

To ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips:

1. Use Fresh Shrimp : Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Zoodles : Sauté zucchini noodles just until tender-crisp to avoid a soggy texture.
3. Adjust Spice Levels : Start with 1 tablespoon of sriracha and gradually add more to suit your heat tolerance.
4. Experiment with Noodles : Try different keto-friendly noodles like shirataki or spaghetti squash for variety.

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Nutritional Breakdown of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 300 per serving
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 150mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 8g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Net Carbs: 6g
• Protein: 22g

These numbers make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta an excellent choice for a low-carb, high-protein meal that keeps you satisfied without compromising your dietary goals.

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Variations and Substitutions

While the classic recipe is undeniably delicious, here are some ideas to customize your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta:

1. Add Veggies

• Stir in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas for added nutrition and texture.

2. Make It Spicier

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

3. Swap the Protein

• Replace shrimp with chicken, tofu, or scallops for a different take on the dish.

4. Go Dairy-Free

• Use dairy-free mayonnaise and omit the butter for a plant-based option.

5. Add Citrus Zest

• Stir in lime or orange zest for a bright, refreshing twist.

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Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy bold, creamy flavors while staying in ketosis. With its rich, spicy-sweet sauce, tender shrimp, and keto-friendly noodles, this dish is sure to become a staple in your low-carb recipe repertoire. Plus, its ease of preparation ensures you can enjoy a stress-free cooking experience while still delivering a satisfying and indulgent meal.

So grab your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to indulge in a pasta dish that’s as nourishing as it is tasty. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, enjoying a family meal, or simply craving something comforting, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is here to make your journey brighter—and spicier!

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